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2024-03-31-accounts

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE)

TRUST Charity No. 517456

Company No.

Trustees' Report and Unaudited Accounts

31 March 2024

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Contents

Pages
Trustees' Annual Report 3 to 4
Independent Examiners Report 5
Statement of Financial Activities 6
Summary Income and Expenditure Account 7
Balance Sheet 8
Notes to the Accounts 10 to 16
Report of the Trustees 17 to 28

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Trustees Annual Report

The Trustees, who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2024.

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Company No.

Charity No. 517456

Registered Office

Hijaz College Watling Street Nuneaton CV116BE

Directors and Trustees

The Directors of the charitable company are its Trustees for the purposes of charity law. The following Directors and Trustees served during the year:

Dr Mohammed Mohbeen Najeeha Al Azkah Siddiqi Dr Jalil Ahmed Farjana Hannan Faried Chedie Dr Safwan Tayyab Hassan Ali Shah Imran Khan Mujib Awan Faizul Aqtab Siddiqi Noorul Aqtab Siddiqi

Accountants

EDGE CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS Electric Wharf 1 Generator Hall CVl 4JL

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The Trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The above report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime as set out in Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 and in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102).

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST

Trustees Annual Report

Signed on behalf of the board

M.AWAN

Trustee

31 March 2024

M. Awan

M. Awan (Jan 27, 2025 15:10 GMT)

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST

Independent Examiners Report

Independent Examiner's Report to the trustees of JAMIA ISLAMIA {ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of JAMIA IS LAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST for the year ended 31 March 2023 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Summary Income and Expenditure Account, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and the related notes.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the charity (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act.

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the charity are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

As the charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of.

I have completed my examination. I can confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that:

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

EDGE CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS Electric Wharf 1 Generator Hall CVl 4JL

31 January 2024

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE)

TRUST Statement of Financial Activities TRUST Statement of Financial Activities
for the year ended 31 March 2024
Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Total Funds
Funds 2024 Funds 2024 2024 2023
Notes £ £ £ £
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies 4 243,785 243,785 435,872
Charitable activities 5 0 0 0
Other trading activities 6 86,024 86,023.54 126,919
Investments 7 26,028 26,027.90 19,005
0
Total 355,837 355,837 581,795
Expenditure on:
Raising funds 8 0 0 0
Charitable activities 9 0 0 0
Other 10 398,334 398,33 603,511
Total -42,498 -42,498 -21,715
Net gains on investments:
Net income -42,498 -42,498 -21,715
Transfers between funds 0 0 0
Net income before other gains/(losses) -42,498 -42,498 -21,715
Net movement in funds 0 0 -21,715
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward 2,615,181 30,000 2,645,183 2,666,897
Total funds carried forward 2,572,683 30,000 2,602,683 2,645,183

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE)

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE)
TRUST Summary Income and Expenditure Account
for the year ended 31 March 2024
2024
2023
£
£
Income 329,809
562,791
Investment Income 26,028
19,005
Gross income for theyear 355,837
581,796
Expenditure 388,120
597,196
Interest Payable 10,215
6,314
Total expenditure for theyear 398,335
603,510
Net income before tax for the year -42,498
-21,715
Net income for the year -42,498
-21,715

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Balance Sheet at 31 March 2024

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE)
TRUST Balance Sheet at 31 March 2024
2024
2023
Notes £
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
12		 3,115,000
3,115,000
3,115,000
3,115,000
Current assets
Cash at bank and in hand 10,931
85,780
10,931
85,780
Creditors: Amount falling due within one year
13		 - 750
- 750
Net current assets 10,181
85,030
Total assets less current liabilities 3,125,181
3,200,030
Creditors:Amounts fallingdue after more than oneyear
14		 - 522,496
- 554,847
Net assets excluding pension asset or liability 2,602,685
2,645,183
Total net assets 2,602,685
2,645,183
The funds of the charity
Restricted funds
15
Restricted income funds 30,000
30,000
Unrestricted funds
15
General funds 1,545,157
1,566,872
Designated funds - 42,497
- 21,715
1,502,659
1,545,157
Reserves
15
Revaluation reserve 1,100,025
1,100,025
Total funds 2,602,684
2,645,182

These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

For the year ended 31 March 2023 the company was entitled to exemption under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.

Approved by the board on 31 March 2024

And signed on its behalf by:

M.AWAN

Trustee 31 March 2024

M. Awan

M. Awan (Jan 27, 2025 15:10 GMT)

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST

Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024

Accounting Policies- Basis of Preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015) ‐ (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

Change in basis of accounting or to previous accounts

There has been no change to the accounting policies (valuation rules and methods of accounting) since last year and no changes have been made to accounts for previous years.

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Notes to the Accounts

I ncome:

Recognition of Income

Income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA) when the charity income becomes entitled to, and virtually certain to receive, the income and the amount of the income can be measured with sufficient reliability

Income with related expenditure

Where income has related expenditure the income and related expenditure is reported gross in the SoFA.

Donations and legacies

Voluntary income received by way of grants, donations and gifts is included in the the legacies SoFA when receivable and only when the Charity has unconditional entitlement to the income .

Tax reclaims on donations and gifts

Income from tax reclaims is included in the SoFA at the same time as the gift/donation to which it relates.

Donated services and facilities

These are only included in income (with an equivalent amount in expenditure) where the benefit to the Charity is reasonably quantifiable, measurable and material.

Volunteer help investment income

The value of any volunteer help received is not included in the accounts. This is included in the accounts when receivable.

Gains/(losses) on revaluation of fixed assets

This includes any gain or loss resulting from revaluing investments to market value at the end of the year.

Gains/(losses) on revaluation of investment assets

This includes any gain or loss on the sale of investments.

Expenditure:

Recognition of expenditure

Expenditure is recognised on an accrual basis. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered and is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates.

Expenditure on raising funds

These comprise the costs associated with attracting voluntary income, fundraising trading costs and investment management costs.

Expenditure on charitable activities

These comprise the costs incurred by the Charity in the delivery of its activities and services in the furtherance of its objects, including the making of grants and governance costs.

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Notes to the Accounts

Grants payable

All grant expenditure is accounted for on an actual paid basis plus an accrual for grants that have been approved by the trustees at the end of the year but not yet paid.

Governance Cost

These include those costs associated with meeting the constitutional and statutory requirements of the Charity, including any audit/independent examination fees, costs linked to the strategic management of the Charity, together with a share of other administration costs.

Other expenditure

These are support costs not allocated to a particular activity.

Taxation

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

Freehold investment property

Investment properties are measured initially at cost and subsequently at fair value at each balance heet date and are not depreciated. All gains or losses are taken to the Statement of Financial Activities as they arise.

Stocks

Stock is included at the lower of cost or net realisable value. Donated items of stock are recognised at fair value which is the amount the charity would have been willing to pay for the items on the open market.

Trade and other debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and on hand, demand deposits with banks and other short-term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less and bank overdrafts. In the statement of financial position, bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings or current liabilities. In the Statement of Cash Flows, cash and cash equivalents are shown net of bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the company's cash management.

Trade and other creditors

Short term creditors are measured at the transaction price. Other creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

Research and development

Expenditure on research and development is written off in the year in which it is incurred.

Foreign currencies

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the charity are translated at

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Notes to the Accounts

the rates of exchange prevailing at the end of the reporting period.

Transactions in currencies other than the functional currency of the charity are recorded at the rate of exchange on the date that the transaction occurred.

All exchange differences are are taken into account in arriving at net income/expenditure.

Leased assets

Where the charity enters into a lease which entails taking substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of an asset, the lease is treated as a finance lease.

Leases which do not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to charity are classified as operating leases. Assets held under finance leases are initially recognised as assets of the charity at their fair value at the inception of the lease or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. The corresponding liability to the lessor is included in the balance sheet date as a finance lease obligation. Lease payments are apportioned between finance expenses and reduction of the lease obligation so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance expenses are recognised immediately, unless they are directly attributable to qualifying assets, in which case they are capitalised in accordance with the charity's policy on borrowing costs. Assets held under finance leases are depreciated in the same way as owned assets.

Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. In the event that lease incentives are received to enter into operating leases, such incentives are recognised as a liability. The aggregate benefit of incentives is recognised as a reduction of rental expense on a straight-line basis.

Pension costs

The charity operates a defined contribution plan for its employees. A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the company pays fixed contributions into a separate entity. Once the contributions have been paid the company has no further payments obligations. The contributions are recognised as expenses when they fall due. Amounts not paid are shown in accruals in the balance sheet. The assets of the plan are held separately from the company in independently administered funds.

Receipt of donated goods, facilities and services

All donated goods, facilities and services received are recognised within incoming resources and expenditure at an estimate of the value to the charity.

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Notes to the Accounts

2 Company status

The company is a private company limited by guarantee and consequently does not have share capital.

3 Income from donations and legacies
Unrestricted Total Total
2024 2023
£ £ £
243,785 243,785 435,872
243,785 243,785 435,872
4 Income from charitable activities
Unrestricted Total Total
2024 2023
£ £ £
- - -
- - -

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Notes to the Accounts

5 Income from other trading activities

6
Income from investments
7Tangible fixed assets
Cost or revaluation
At 1 April 2023
At 31 March 2024
Net book values
At 31 March 2024
8 Creditors:
amounts falling due within one year
Trade creditors
9 Creditors:
amounts falling due after more than
one year
Bank loans and overdrafts
Other loans
Other creditors		 Unrestricted
£
86,024
86,024
Unrestricted
£
26,028
26,028
£
3,115,000
3,115,000
3,115,000
2024
£
750
750
2024
£
159,643
361,284
1,569
522,496		 Total
2024
£
86,024
86,024		 Total
2023
£
126,919
126,919
Total
2023
£
19,005
19,005
£
3,115,000
3,115,000
3,115,000
2023
£
750
750
2023
£
191,612
361,284
1,951
554,847
Total
2024
£
26,028
26,028
£
-
-
-

JAMIA ISLAMIA (ISLAMIC STUDIES CENTRE) TRUST Notes to the Accounts

10 Movement in funds

1 April 2023 31 March 2024 31 March 2024
£ £
Restricted funds:
Restricted income
funds		 30,000 30,000
Total 30,000 30,000
Unrestricted funds:
General funds 1,566,872 1,545,157
Designated funds -21,715 -42,498
Total 1,545,157 1,502,659
Revaluation reserves:
Revaluation fund 1,100,025 1,100,025
Total 1,100,025 1,100,025

11 Related party disclosures

Controlling party

The company is limited by guarantee and has no share capital; thus, no single party controls the company.

Report of the trustees for the year ending 31[st] March 2024

The Trustees are pleased to present the Annual Report alongside the financial statements for the Trust for the year ending 31st March 2024. This year has been marked by impactful outreach, enriching educational initiatives, and strengthened community bonds.

The Trust’s involvement in the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre & Country Park’s Medieval Festival in Leicestershire, UK, showcased its commitment to cultural exchange. Hijaz Expo volunteers engaged attendees with interactive workshops, including daff drumming and traditional mosaic tile-making, fostering inclusivity and bridging cultural gaps. This collaboration extended to co-curating the exhibition A Tale of Two Re-Interments , which explored the shared histories of King Richard III and His Eminence Murshid Muhammad Abdul Wahab Siddiqi (RA). The exhibition featured rare footage, interactive displays, and eyewitness accounts.

The preparation for this exhibition required significant effort, with a dedicated team of Hijaz Expo volunteers investing over 1,000 hours collectively. Their work included researching historical data, gathering cultural insights, and sourcing relevant artefacts to ensure the exhibition’s success. This collaboration underscored the importance of community involvement in preserving and sharing history.

The Hijaz Expo members had a fantastic day at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre & Country Park, Leicestershire, UK with Culture Leicestershire at the launch of a unique cocurated exhibition. In this year’s report, we reflect on this meaningful partnership and the dedication of the volunteers who made it possible.

We were honoured to invite the Mayor of Hinckley, Cllr Scott Gibbens and other esteemed guests to the emotional Farewell Viewing of ‘A Tale of Two Re-Interments’.

We also had the pleasure of hosting the Police Beat team in Hinckley and Bosworth for a successful day focused on community engagement and public service.

Hijaz remains dedicated to fostering spiritual well-being through regular gatherings, many of which are live-streamed to reach wider audiences. Spiritual surgeries and mentoring programmes continue to offer bespoke guidance and support, extending to youth and individuals from diverse backgrounds. These efforts highlight Hijaz’s commitment to holistic education and spiritual growth.

For this year’s Blessed Summit, we selected the theme "Knowledge into Action" to address a pressing challenge faced by many in today’s information-saturated world. With so much data available through Google, AI, and social media, it’s increasingly difficult for individuals to discern what is credible, authentic, and beneficial—especially when seeking Islamic knowledge. We wanted to explore how Muslims can navigate the overwhelming maze of conflicting information and cognitive overload, to ultimately find true knowledge that deepens their relationship with the Creator.

This theme was chosen to encourage participants not only to seek out credible and reliable sources of knowledge but to go a step further: to transform that knowledge into practical action. We aimed to provide a structured, holistic, and relevant approach to education, where attendees could understand how mainstream learning and Islamic teachings align to support personal growth. The summit emphasised the importance of making education meaningful, not just intellectually but also spiritually, offering tools for self-discovery and fostering the

inspiration to live with intention and purpose.

By focusing on "Knowledge into Action," we sought to remind participants that true education doesn’t stop at information gathering—it must be applied in a way that enhances both one's daily life and their relationship with the Creator. To ensure widespread access, the summit was made available online for the convenience of those unable to attend in person The summit’s accessibility was enhanced through live-streaming, ensuring broader participation.

Hijaz’s grounds continue to attract a diverse range of beneficiaries, with regular visits to the Garden of Blessings providing opportunities for personal, spiritual, and educational enrichment. Outreach programmes and nearly two decades of mentorship initiatives have enabled participants to engage with a vibrant Islamic lifestyle. Events such as the Blessed Summit, away days, and monthly spiritual gatherings consistently inspire attendees to return with friends and colleagues, broadening the Trust’s reach.

Hijaz stands as a unique public site in Europe, providing a sanctuary for worship, education, and reflection. Visitors are immersed in an atmosphere enriched by the continuous recitation of the noble Qur’an, creating a tranquil and transformative experience. The Trust’s Business Plan continues to focus on leveraging Hijaz’s distinct features—including Europe’s first Muslim Mausoleum, a modernised Mosque, and a private Muslim graveyard—to welcome a wider demographic and promote understanding of Islam.

The Medina Youth Programme’s annual summer celebration was a joyful highlight, bringing together 80 students and over 150 attendees. Activities such as bouncy castles, a BBQ, and a movie screening in the Marquee created a memorable day for students, parents, and the community. This event exemplified the programme’s dedication to blending education with community engagement, fostering lasting connections.

The Trust is devoted to providing enriching educational experiences through taster days and guided tours, dispelling myths about Islam and fostering dialogue. The combination of Europe’s first Muslim Mausoleum, reflective spaces, and educational programmes offers visitors an immersive introduction to Islamic spirituality.

The Trustees extend heartfelt gratitude to donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries whose unwavering support drives the Trust’s mission. Through their contributions, Hijaz continues to serve as a beacon of education, spirituality, and community enrichment, fostering deeper understanding of Islam and strengthening societal bonds.

Looking ahead, the Trust is committed to furthering its outreach efforts, expanding its educational programmes, and nurturing its unique role in the community.

Secretary’s Report

/ Mujib Awan Secretary

Our purposes and activities

Jamia Islamia (Islamic Studies Centre) Trust, known as “Hijaz College”, has been serving the community for over three decades and has built unique partnerships within the British Muslim community. Its core values have always been centred on Education, Society and Spirituality.

Mission Statement

Offering Islamic spiritual and academic education and mentoring for Muslims in the U.K., and strengthening their ethical religious and social values and citizenship.

The key purposes of the Trust are:

The trustees have developed a Business Plan to implement its objectives by:

The following projects are being utilised to achieve the Trust’s aims and objectives:

Hijaz College

Medina Youth Programme

The Medina Youth Programme is a comprehensive introduction to essential Islamic subjects. The educational programme continues to be a popular course for young Muslim children within Hijaz Trust. Classes continue to be held 4 times a week on zoom, and accumulate in regular quizzes to assess their progress.

Medina Youth

The online teaching allows for the children of both local Hijaz Trust members and afar to benefit from the distance learning provided.

Throughout the last year there have been approximately 50 regular attendees who thoroughly enjoy the lessons. The Trust hopes to continue to inspire young minds so that they are instilled

with a full understanding of the Islamic way of life and develop the characteristics of ideal Muslim citizens as they grow up.

To celebrate their achievements and progress throughout the year, a summer party was organised. Participating children, their families and local Hijaz Trust volunteers came together to enjoy a barbeque, lunch, inflatables and a movie in the Marquee.

Educational events

Education continues to be delivered through monthly gatherings to allow more people to benefit from a deeper understanding of Islam and its teachings.

  1. The weekly online teaching of Islamic texts continued in the following areas:

  2. i. Studying the text “ Instructions of the Student: The Method of Learning ” by Maulana Asim Awan. This is a concise book with some practical advice for those seeking to study knowledge and touches upon topics such as the nature and merit of knowledge, the purpose of the study, the choices in learning, relying on God, the Time for the attainment of knowledge, abstinence during the pursuit of knowledge and memory and forgetfulness.

  3. ii. Studying the text ‘40 Hadith on mercy and those who show mercy’ , focusing on the benefits for people when they are merciful to each other.

The above lessons are taught online, which people can access on Audio Mack and YouTube. These have 133 online followers and over 8000 plays.

2. Weekly Dhikr (Remembrance of God)

Weekly spiritual gatherings of congregational dhikr have continued in the Mosque. This gathering of Dhikr is an opportunity for intellectual stimulation and education as well as nourishment for the soul.

3. Community gatherings

We were happy to host regular monthly gatherings in which the community is invited for an evening of education, worship and dinner. Such events included the celebration of Mawlid-un-Nabi (celebration of the birth of holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ). Whilst we were happy to host communal gatherings, we continued live-streaming for those unable to travel or be present in Hijaz.

The Hijaz Trust enjoyed the privilege and honour of a custodian of the blessed hair of holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the blessed hair of Hazrat Abdul Qadr Jilani (RA) brought to Hijaz, the Mausoleum and Hijaz Mosque, during Fajr time of the 12th Rabbi ul Awwal shareef. This allowed our congregation to commemorate the advent of Holy Prophet ﷺ at the exact time and date of his blessed birth. The opportunity was welcomed by the Trust and beneficiaries, whom were truly grateful and fortunate to have been able to host such a holy relic during a commemorative and celebratory time of the Islamic calendar.

Both Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha were celebrated in Hijaz and Eid lunch was enjoyed outdoors with an opportunity for children to enjoy the grounds and play in the playground area.

The wider community was invited to join in with other solemn and auspicious dates in

the Islamic calendar, including the Night of Ascension and the Night of Forgiveness, which took place in the Mosque and Mausoleum. These included the recommended visit of the graveyard to make special prayer for those buried there along with the late relatives of the congregation.

4. Friday Jummah Sermons

Community Outreach

In continuation of our outreach efforts of providing food to our neighbours and the community we delivered several 100s of food packages in Nuneaton and Hinckley. The volunteers rallied together to organise the cooking, packing and distribution of lamb curry packages.

Hijaz Expo

  1. In recent years, the Trust has been considering how best to showcase the grounds within its idyllic setting and unique offerings. The grounds have been known and visited by a growing community of beneficiaries for over a decade. Much of this audience has been by those of Muslim faith, seeking to build upon their spiritual creation or to seek blessings from the Mausoleum. The centre of education, personal development and spiritual enrichment has had far-reaching effects nationally and beyond. The Trust has focussed its new Business Plan on establishing a ‘visit day’ on the blessed grounds and opening this up to the wider public, in which members of the general public can experience and learn about Islam.

  2. As this Visit Day involves an outing and exhibits, showcasing aspects of Islam, including Islamic music and architecture, as well as the in-person experiential activities of visiting a Mausoleum and observing Muslim worship, the Hijaz Expo became the perfect name to encapsulate the day.

  3. With this in mind, the Trust has spent time and thought in developing the grounds, making improvements for better accessibility and facilities as well as enhancing the existing natural beauty of the landscape.

  4. The Trust is aiming to launch the Hijaz Expo to local organisations in April 2025 and looks forward to hosting away days for schools, colleges, universities, councils, unions, scouts, media organisations for profit and non-profit associations, interfaith, and individuals.

Co-curating a new Community-led Exhibition at a local Heritage Site

Last year, we detailed our plans for a community-led exhibition at the Battle of Bosworth Heritage Centre (BBHC), centred on the theme "History Changing Lives." This theme aimed to emphasise the transformative power of historical narratives, with a particular focus on the re-interment story of His Eminence Murshid Muhammad Abdul Wahab Siddiqi (RA). Our dedicated team of volunteers worked tirelessly to collect, digitise, and organise personal accounts, photographs, and historical footage to bring this vision to life.

This year, we were proud to announce the successful launch of " A Tale of Two ReInterments ," a unique temporary exhibition that explores the parallels between two influential figures: King Richard III and the Saint His Eminence Murshid Muhammad Abdul Wahab Siddiqi (RA). Both men, who died young, were later re-interred in sacred places in the local area, making their stories emblematic of the region's historical tapestry.

The exhibition tells the life, works, and contributions of His Eminence since the 1970s through an immersive experience, featuring photographs, videos, and eye-witness accounts. The exhibit highlights how much shared history exists between different communities and demonstrates how the lives of these prominent individuals intersect with broader historical narratives.

The launch event received an enthusiastic response, with Mr. Kevin Feltham , Chairman of Leicestershire County Council, remarking: “ The County is delighted to host this unique exhibition which brings together two parallel but different histories. It shows how much there is in common even 500 years apart .” His words captured the essence of our efforts to celebrate shared heritage while acknowledging the richness brought by diversity.

Murshid Faizul Aqtab Siddiqi , Chairman of Hijaz Trust, also shared during the launch: “ Our Saint was entwined into the fabric of British life and embraced our shared values. When we look closely, we find that most of humanity has a lot in common, whatever our backgrounds. Our differences are few and where they exist, they add a richness and diversity to be celebrated. Muslims are part and parcel of Britain’s heritage and legacy; I find it entirely appropriate to celebrate our saint’s life in the UK with King Richard’s at Bosworth Battlefield and Heritage Centre .”

The exhibition was also praised by Najeeha Siddiqi , Trustee of Hijaz Trust, who commented: “ This exhibition is a celebration of the homogenisation of Islam into British heritage and history. ”

Franne Wills , Head of Communities and Wellbeing at Leicestershire County Council, emphasized the collaborative spirit of the project: “ Our museums, libraries, collections and learning resources are part of the glue that binds communities together and contributes to making them stronger. Strength comes in collaborating with communities to ensure that they make decisions on what heritage and culture is enjoyed and shared and in what way .”

The exhibition’s success is a testament to the tireless efforts of our volunteers, who devoted over 1,000 hours to bring this vision to life. Their work in researching, digitising

materials, and incorporating multimedia and sensory elements resulted in a truly engaging and educational experience for visitors.

"A Tale of Two Re-Interments" not only highlighted the similarities between two influential figures from different eras but also underscored the deep connections between diverse communities in the UK. Through this exhibit, we celebrated our shared values, history, and heritage, ultimately strengthening our community bonds. We are thrilled by the positive feedback and the opportunity to continue working towards making history accessible, meaningful, and inclusive for all.

Spiritual Surgery and Mentoring

Surgery time with Murshid Faiz ul Aqtab Siddiqi continues to be offered to members of Hijaz Trust and the wider public on a regular basis. This allows the public to ask questions about the Islamic faith, spirituality, and their personal affairs. Where necessary, bespoke guidance has been provided to assist with marital or family disputes, business disagreements to offer advice and resolutions. It is a true asset to the trust that the Shaykh is a qualified Islamic scholar and commercial barrister, and therefore able to offers a holistic and informed perspective on matters pertaining to both Islamic law and also the English legal system.

In keeping with centralising our inimitable services to our main site, spiritual surgeries have been held in Hijaz. We continue to hold surgery prior to the national events usually held in the evening. This way we have still been able to offer the general and bespoke mentoring by members of Hijaz Trust.

Bespoke guidance continues to be provided by His Eminence Shaykh Siddiqi in the form of surgery on an appointment basis throughout the year. Visitors benefitted from both the Shaykh’s and Hijaz Trust mentors’ methodical guidance as well as the spiritual benefits of spending time on- site for reflection, worship and spiritual blessings.

Blessed Summit

The Blessed Summit is an annual national weekend programme that takes place in Hijaz in Nuneaton every summer. It is a free event, which several hundreds of people attend including local volunteers, friends, family and people who have experienced or engaged with the Trust’s projects. The Blessed Summit continues to be a popular event which allows volunteers from around the country and locally to gather and attend collective worship as well as reflect on relevant issues, usually relating to the theme of the event.

The Blessed Summit was held for a selective audience and a livestreamed online event for the wider audience to join. The theme of this year’s Blessed Summit was entitled ‘ Knowledge into Action: The Muslim Role Model ’, showcasing a wide ranging 30 speeches over the course of the 3 days. Some of these speeches helped Muslims navigate a world with an intensifying rise in Islamophobia and advice on how to tackle Islamophobia and promoting social harmony.

Notable speakers included:

● Conor Murphy

Strategy and Finance Advisor, Founder, Board Executive, Angel investor, Intl., Trade Advisor, Exploration Mining, Edtech.

Speech title: Knowledge Before Action

● Professor Shahid Ali

BSc, PhD, MBChB, FICR, FRCP, GP & Director

Speech title: Generations Lost: The Impact of Lack of Role Models in Society

Speech Title: How Cultural Practices Influence Islamophobia

The stimulation of the mind and the spirit was provided in the physical and online event, and all the collective worship, including the ceremonial inauguration of the weekend and cumulative Dhikr and final prayer at the end were livestreamed as they occurred, allowing people to participate and reap the spiritual benefits from the comfort of their homes. In total, the number of people who participated, including the numbers on the grounds and those watching from home was approximately 5,000.

Participants praised the summit for providing fresh insights into addressing long-standing societal challenges. They appreciated the diverse perspectives offered, which deepened their understanding of the Islamic approach to implementing knowledge into action and fostering positive change.

Muslim Arbitration Tribunal (MAT)

Due to the unavailability of staff, the Muslim Arbitration Tribunal (MAT) has not been operational. While MAT has historically provided a vital legal service offering alternative dispute resolution based on Islamic Sacred Law, including cases related to family disputes and forced marriages, the current staffing constraints have prevented it from functioning as intended. As a result, the Trust has been unable to offer arbitration services during this period.

Garden of Blessings

The Garden of Blessings is an exclusive Muslim burial ground located in Hijaz Manor. It provides a private burial site for Muslims who wish to visit their relatives in a place connected and devoted to promoting the core values of Islam. The Garden of Blessings also provides income for the Trust.

reserved in recent years. This year from 2023-24 the number of burials has been, taking the total occupancy of the graves to over 147.

Garden of Blessings continues to offer funeral services and works with other Muslim places of worships and funeral services to facilitate Muslim families in burying their loved ones quickly and with dignity. The Trust continues to undertake the professional services of two funeral directors in Birmingham and individuals as well as not-for-profit community organisations who offer pastoral care and assist in the running of burials fulfilling the delicate needs of a Muslim burial and faith-related bereavement support. The Trust also benefited from the support of volunteers who offered practical and emotional support to bereaved families.

Jamia Islamia Property Estate & Renovation

As planned, extensive renovation and improvements of the Hijaz grounds are continuing. A full breakdown of expenditure on renovation, maintenance and repairs are shown below:

Masjid Improvements:

Ablution facilities:

Main Building Upgrades:

Other works:

These extensive efforts reflect our commitment to enhancing the Hijaz site, creating a comfortable and beautiful space for the community to gather and practice their faith. We are proud that the mosque continues to serve as a central hub for key projects and charitable activity on site, including spiritual gatherings, a place for lectures, mentoring and reflection in an uplifting environment.

The Trust continues to receive a healthy rental income from residents living on the grounds,

and therefore has continued to invest in maintenance and improvements of the flats and houses.

As with many of the works, the Trust is very grateful to the dedicated team of volunteers whom have provided professional services overseeing the works on site free of charge, thus saving the charity a significant sum.

Provision of Accommodation facilities for Trainers of Volunteers

The Hijaz grounds continues to attract more volunteers and devotees, whom wish to raise their families around an Islamic environment. The resident voluntary trainers and Mentors continue to play a key role in ensuring the quality and full coordination of the execution of these projects. Resident volunteers have been providing regular training – e.g. zikr, bespoke mentoring, assistance with the youth programmes and academic on the subjects of Islamic Law and Spirituality. The Trust is looking at existing spaces where further accommodation can be developed for volunteers to reside on site.

The contributions being made by the resident volunteers equate to almost £70,000 and this aspect of the Trust has become a key asset. The Trust will continue to develop and expand this to facilitate more volunteers to come and also to provide even better facilities.

Our Volunteers

All the projects of the Trust rely heavily on the goodwill of volunteers.

A vast proportion of the operational costs of our projects are met by volunteer contributions from those living on site, not only financially but through donating their time and, when required, their expertise.

Whilst the Trust has not formally accounted individually, the following examples give volunteer’s Equivalent Monetary Voluntary Contribution, a brief insight into the sheer quality and value of the contributions made by the on-site volunteers.

Financial review

The charity’s incoming resources for the period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 totalled £355,836 (£581,795 for YE 2023). This consisted of donations, the charity’s investment income, contribution from volunteers, utilities and biomass subsidiary income. It is important to acknowledge the huge contribution of time and commitment from our volunteers who have helped to manage the Trust at a minimal cost.

The charity expenditure for the same period was £398,344 leaving a profit and loss balance loss for YE 31 March 2024 as £42,498. The charity’s bank balance position at the end of this period shows £10,931.

Reserve policy and going concern

Reserves are required to ensure the stable operations of The Trust. The Operating Reserve is intended to provide an internal source of funds for situations such as sudden increase in expenses, on-time unplanned expenses, or unanticipated loss in funding. The Reserve may also be used for one-time, nonrecurring expenses that will build long-term capacity, such as research and development or investment in infrastructure.

Operating reserves are not intended to replace a permanent loss of funds or eliminate an ongoing budget gap. It is the intention of Jamia Islamia for Operating Reserves to be used and replenished within a short period of time.

The trustees decided there was no need to increase the level of reserves and, as at 31 March 2024, kept it at £9,000.

Our balance sheet remains strong due to the ownership of the site. The trustees have reviewed the circumstances of Jamia Islamia and consider that adequate resources continue to be available to fund the activities of the Trust for the foreseeable future. The trustees are of the view that the Trust is a going concern.

Plans for future periods

Planned Site Works: